Hansel & Gretel U OPERA PRESENTS
U OPERA
SCHOOL OF MUSIC PRESENTS
Engelbert Humperdinck's
Hansel & Gretel
English Translation by Tom Hammond
February 27 & 28, 2026
KINGSBURY HALL | 7:30 p.m.
Featuring University of Utah Philharmonia
University of Utah School of Dance
DIRECTOR NOTES
Good evening!
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to our 2026 U Opera production of Hansel & Gretel. This fairytale masterpiece is Engelbert Humperdinck’s first complete opera and continues to stand as one of his greatest musical achievements. It has been a favorite of audiences, children and adults alike, since its premiere 133 years ago.
The opera Hansel & Gretel began as a group of children’s songs that Humperdinck wrote for a play being written by his sister, Adelheid Wette, for her children. Over the course of three years, 1890-1893, the work took wings to become the piece that we see today. With a libretto by Humperdinck’s sister, the opera had its premiere in 1893 right before Christmas and has been loosely associated with the holiday ever since. It is interesting to think that the opening performance in Weimar, Germany was conducted by none other than Richard Strauss who called the work ‘a true masterpiece.’ This might be because the score features an ingenious mix of simple German folk songs and complex orchestrations that might remind one of Wagner. Of course, that shouldn’t be too surprising. Engelbert Humperdinck was not only a student and protégé of Wagner but also played a significant role in helping Wagner bring his opera Parsifal to the stage.
As it is with many children’s fairy tales, Hansel & Gretel, on the surface, is a very dark story that includes themes of poverty, abandonment, and violence. However, in our production, we have sought to turn our lens to the protagonists to highlight the strength and resilience of Hansel and Gretel and to show that their plight is not the result of evil but the product of a difficult life living in poverty.
DIRECTOR NOTES
Throughout the story, you will see each of the siblings step up in various moments to encourage the other or to offer their strength in the other’s moment of weakness or fear. I believe that it is in these moments that the brother and sister create an even deeper familial bond. Eventually this bond becomes so strong that together they discover the unexpected courage they need to stand up to their greatest fear, The Witch.
By the end of the opera, Hansel and Gretel not only rise above the challenges they have encountered but manage to save all the children who have fallen into the witch’s clutches before them. I like to think that after the final curtain the Mother and Father choose to welcome every one of the newly freed children as a part of their family, therein creating something more wonderful than they ever could have imagined.
Thank you all for coming out tonight and for supporting the students of U Opera. We hope you enjoy our production of Humperdinck’s masterpiece.
James Bobick Stage Director
PRODUCTION TEAM
Conductor
Stage Director
Asst. Director of Opera
Stage Manager
Technical Director
Scenic, Costume, & Properties Designer
Lighting Designer
Sound Designer
Choreographer
Principle Coach
Rehearsal Pianist
1st ASM
2nd ASM
Asst. Conductor
Set Dresser and Painter
Asst. Lighting Designer/Electrician
Spot Operator
Spot Operator
Supertitle Operator Stitcher
Set Painter
Children’s Chorus Asst.
Stage Management Mentor Crew Crew Crew Crew
ROBERT BALDWIN
JAMES BOBICK
AUBREY ADAMS-MCMILLAN
LYNN BRISCO
ABISH NOBLE
ROBIN FARNSLEY-BECKER
SARA SCHWARTZ
JACOB MARTINEZ
MELISSA BOBICK
CAROL ANDERSON
MIRIAM MEDLEY
BLAKE NELSON
MADDISYN THOMAS
SAILA DUPLISSIE
ROXANNE BECKER
LEAH CURZON
SIERRA LOERTSCHER
MARY GRENDA
EMILY HUBERT
AVA MYNTTI
LIZ MYNTTI
SHANTELL PEADEN
AMBER BIELINSKI
SOFIA VIGIL
AIDEN CARLSON
NIKITA SWALLIE
DOMINIC FEDOR
AJA VOGELMAN
Operations Manager, UtahPresents
ROSEMARY JONES
Production Manager, Kingsbury Hall
DAVID BRAITHWAITE
Technical Director, Kingsbury Hall
JAMES PADILLA
Lighting Supervisor, Kingsbury Hall
Special Thanks
KIMBERLY COUNCILL
Director of the School of Music
DWIGHT WESTERN
Sandy Arts Guild
MICHAEL CHADWICK
Chadwick Creative Arts, LLC
CAST
OPENING CAST 2/27
Hansel
Gretel
Witch
Father
Mother
Sandman
Dew Fairy
Karley Swallow
Casey Morris
Katie Mansfield
Akshay Ghiya
Rocio Valle-Lucero
Nahal Falahatimarvast
Natalia Turchin
CLOSING CAST 2/28
Hansel
Gretel
Witch
Father
Mother
Sandman
Dew Fairy
Erika Smith
Elida Wadsworth
Robin Farnsley-Becker
R. Porter Hiatt
Dawn Marie Wells
Chantel Evans
Kayley Brinkerhoff
CAST COVERS
Witch
Sandman
Dew Fairy
Cynthia Harris
Aeryn Cousineau
Emelia Hartford
CHILDREN’S CHORUS LEADERS
Ricky Cornejo
MaryBeth Groth
Emelia Hartford
Zekun Huang
CHILDREN’S CHORUS
Emmeline Blodgett
Lila Blodgett
Talmage Blodgett
Lincoln Bradfield
Clara Fowles
Adelyn Kuck
Cozette Lewis
Carter Lyman
Kate Lyman
Mathew Lyman
Sophia Lyman
Ruby Merrill
Alice Myntti
Lily Myntti
Austin Peaden
Caleb Peaden
GNOMES
Caitlin Corbett
Caleb Gordon
Sarah Mair
Abby Payne
Lucy Peaden
Lydia Peaden
Lev Porter
Lincoln Porter
Norah Rossel
Audrey Ward
Ellie Ward
DANCERS
Caitlyn Camchong
Kylie Chu
Anna Grace Cox
Evelyn Dodge
Grace Friedley
Lily Langer
Charlotte Muir
Hayley Winslow
UNIVERSITY OF UTAH PHILHARMONIA
VIOLIN 1
Alina Baron+
Aubrey Derbidge
Adlyn Bouck
Maya Dean
Sarah Francis
Morgan Perry
Melanie Hansen
VIOLIN 2
Abby Morrell*
Jewelia Spjute
Pedro Morales
Robert Means
Morgan Conlan
Lucy Stevenson
VIOLA
Tobias Roth*
Myalee Smith
Elena Smart
Naomi Smith
Julian Klein
CELLO
Nicholas Kelley*
Debbie Hsu
Lydia Mitchell
Julia Fierro
Kai Bowen
Eden Wilson
BASS
Megan Hall*
Adeline Hiemstra
FLUTE
David Bennett*
Chloe Richter
Grace Loos, piccolo
OBOE
Anna Larson*
Abby McMullen
CLARINET
Rachael Berghahn*
Allie VanLeuven
Braxton Joe, bass clarinet
BASSOON
Luke Pfeil*
Braxton Topham
HORN
Jacob Wheelwright**
Adam Hendrick**
Ethan Young
Chris Hansen
TRUMPET
Kris Gilmore*
Ann Gray TROMBONE
Dorian Dillon*
Jackson Marz
Owen Mattson, bass trombone
TUBA
J. Logan Tolman*
HARP
Marienna Smith*
TIMPANI
Tim Petersen
PERCUSSION
Jordan McMillan*
Jaxon Howes
Ellie Foote
Elliot Mohlman
+Concertmaster
*Principal
**Co-principal
CAST BIOS
Kayley Brinkerhoff soprano, is currently a sophomore in the University of Utah’s Vocal Performance program. She has the pleasure of studying under Professor Kirsten Chávez. Kayley is also a member of the University of Utah’s Chamber Choir and a recipient of the generous Ellen Nelson Barnes Endowed Choir Scholarship. After six years of classical voice training Kayley has developed an extensive repertoire spanning many different styles. She is thrilled to be working with so many talented performers in her first operas. Kayley is immensely thankful for all the people in her life supporting her and the joy music and collaboration brings.
Caitlyn Camchong was born and raised in Central Florida. Caitlyn began her training at an early age in various styles including ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, and acro. She then went on to train at Central Florida Ballet, where she also joined their Studio Company. It is there that she fostered a love for teaching younger students. Caitlyn is currently a junior at the University of Utah pursuing an Honors degree in Ballet. At Utah, she has performed in various new works and several roles in classical ballets- including Paquita (Paquita Grand Pas Classique), Russian Demisoloist (George Balanchine’s Serenade) and Zulma (Giselle Act II).
Natalia Turchin is a Moldovan soprano celebrated for her vocal agility, emotional depth, and dynamic stage presence. Trained internationally (M.M., Southeastern Louisiana University; Specialist Diploma, St. Petersburg State Conservatory), she excels in repertoire from bel canto to contemporary opera. Recent highlights include Adele (Die Fledermaus by Strauss), Alice in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., Babbitt's electronic work Philomel, and Elvira (Rossini's L’Italiana in Algeri in Italy). A 2024 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competon participant, she has won top prizes in Romania and performed with orchestras and in recitals across Europe and the United States. Fluent in three languages, Natalia loves preparing new roles and working on new projects.
CAST BIOS
Kylie Chu is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet at the University of Utah, with a minor in Korean Studies. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she trained for 13 years at Pacific Northwest Ballet, where she developed a strong classical foundation and refined her technical and artistic abilities. In addition to her classical training, Kylie has extensive experience in modern dance and choreography, expanding her versatility as both a performer and creative artist. Her performance experience includes Soloist in Paquita Grande Pas Classique, Demi-Soloist in George Balanchine’s Serenade, and Moyna in Giselle, as well as multiple new works from professors and choreographers at the U.
Caitlin Corbett is very excited and grateful to participate in the U Opera this season. This is the third opera production she has been part of, with most of her background being in choral singing. She participated in both the Die Fledermaus and La Bohème chorus during the U Opera 2024-25 season. She has been a participant in madrigals at East High School and in the University of Utah Chamber Choir under Dr. Barlow Bradford and Dr. Eric Schmidt, though she is very excited to take on opera. She has participated in NATS while taking lessons from Rebecca Glade, getting second and third place for two years in 2019 and 2020 in the musical theater and classical divisions. This will be her second semester studying voice lessons under Professor Julie Wright-Costa. She started voice lessons as a freshman in high school and continued at Utah State, her freshman year and as a transfer student at the University of Utah. She has two more years at the University of Utah having finished her bachelors in psychology, and is now finishing her bachelors of music. She has developed a love for opera over the past year participating in the University of Utah’s opera. She has participated in the most recent production of Beethoven's Ode to Joy, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming for the Grand Teton Music Festival, as a chorus member. She enjoys painting, singing, reading, photography, and spending time with friends and family.
CAST BIOS
Ricky Cornejo is a sophomore tenor pursuing a BM in Vocal performance at the University of Utah. Studying with Professor James Bobick, he was involved in his first opera as a chorus member for the University of Utah’s production of Die Fledermaus. Ricky is also involved in the Michie Undergraduate Quartet as well as the Barbershop Quartet, which he formed at the U. In addition, he has also performed Carmina Burana at Abravanel Hall as a member of the A Cappella choir.
Aeryn Cousineau is a sophomore in the University of Utah’s Vocal Performance undergraduate class. She was most recently seen in Kensington’s production of The Phantom of the Opera as the Confidant. She would like to thank her mom for always being in the audience no matter what, and she would like to thank her father for crying at all her performances.
Anna Grace Cox is from Charles Town, WV, and a junior at the University of Utah, where she is a Ballet BFA candidate. She started her dance training at a young age and completed her pre-college training at Inwood Performing Arts, where she trained in classical ballet and contemporary. At the U, Anna Grace has performed in both classical and contemporary works, including some highlights as the Principal Role, Nikiya, in La Bayadere, Kingdom of the Shades, in George Balanchine’s Serenade, and, most recently, a Wili in Giselle. She will be going to the American College Dance Association conference in Las Vegas in March for Paloma Querida, choreographed by Michelle Manzanales.
CAST BIOS
Evelyn Dodge is currently a sophomore at the University of Utah, double-majoring in Ballet and Strategic Communications, with a minor in Political Science. She is also pursuing her passion for writing by working as a Copy Editor with the Utah Daily Chronicle. Evelyn has performed in numerous productions at the School of Dance, including In Her Runes (2024), choreographed by Sayoko Knode; Kingdom of the Shades: La Bayadère (2025); Paloma Quierda (2025), choreographed by Michelle Manzanales; and Giselle Act II (2026), among others. Evelyn discovered her passion for dance at the age of three. She joined Greenwich Ballet Academy in 2020 and danced in all GBA productions, most notably the role of Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. Evelyn has attended many prestigious summer intensive programs, including the Complexions Contemporary Ballet (2025), John Cranko School (2024), Bolshoi Ballet Academy NY (2023), Colorado Ballet Academy (2023), Ellison Ballet (2022), Kaatsbaan Ballet (2022, 2021), and American Ballet Theatre (2020). Evelyn has also participated in numerous ballet competitions, earning awards and high-ranking placements at Youth America Grand Prix, Universal Ballet Competition, and Connecticut Classic. This summer, she will be attending the Ellison Ballet Summer Intensive in New York City and the Artè Ballet Summer Program in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Chantel Evans is in her second year of the Vocal Performance and Pedagogy Master’s program at the University of Utah and is thrilled to be on stage with U Opera for the first time. Chantel has performed in several roles in the Opera Scenes shows at Brigham Young University - Idaho, where she completed her undergraduate studies. During these programs Chantel has had the opportunity to perform in scenes as Marenka from Smetena’s The Bartered Bride and Susannah from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. Chantel also performed the role of Miss Pinkerton in BYU - Idaho Theater’s production of Menotti’s The Old Maid and the Thief.
CAST BIOS
Nahal Falahatimarvast is a fourth-year BM student studying under Professors Kirstin Chávez and James Bobick at the University of Utah. Born in Tehran, Iran, she came to the United States in 2022 to pursue her dream of being a professional opera singer. In her free time she enjoys movies, horseback riding, cooking, and spending time with her husband Erfan.
Grace Friedley is currently a sophomore at the University of Utah, double majoring in Ballet, and Environment and Sustainability Studies. Grace has performed in many productions at the University of Utah School of Dance, most notably Inherited (2024) choreographed by Melissa Bobick; In Her Runes (2024) choreographed by Sayoko Knode; La Bayadere (2025) restaged by Maggie Wright Tesch and Justine SheedyKramer; and Giselle Act II (2026) restaged by Justine Sheedy-Kramer. Grace is so thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of this wonderful opera and to have gotten to work with Melissa Bobick on this lovely piece!
Akshay Ghiya is a lyric baritone pursuing a Master’s degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. With a warm and captivating voice, he has brought many roles to life on stage, including Gianni Schicchi in Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, Marcello in Puccini’s La bohème, Sergeant Belcore in Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, and many more. Akshay currently serves as the Baritone Teaching Assistant at the U, performing with the Graduate Vocal Quartet and teaching voice lessons, and he is currently a student of Professor James Bobick.
CAST BIOS
Caleb Gordon is excited to be a part of the Opera season at the University of Utah School of Music for his second year! Last season, he was seen as The Page in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Chorus in Die Fledermaus, and The Sergeant in La bohème. Other favorite credits include Bass Caroler in A Christmas Carol in 2022 and 2025 (HCTO/The Ruth), Count Leopold in Anastasia: The Musical (Draper Historic Theatre), Ensemble in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (The Grand Theatre), and a Swing in The Drowsy Chaperone (The Grand Theatre).
MaryBeth Groth is a soprano from northern Florida currently studying under Dr. Carol Ann Allred at the University of Utah. She has had the honor of appearing in several operatic productions, singing roles such as Hebe HMS Pinafore, and La Novizia, Suor Angelica, sections of Don Giovonni and Don Pasquale as Zerlina and Norina with American West Symphony and U Opera. In January 2023, she made her professional debut singing in Utah Symphony and Utah Opera’s production of Orff’s Carmina Burana. MaryBeth sang in the world orchestral premiere of Amy Scurria’s new opera A.L.I.C.E. She most recently appeared as Ida in U Opera’s Die Fledermaus in February. This past July, she performed at the Teton Valley Chamber Music Festival in concert.
Cynthia Harris is a dynamic mezzo-soprano based in Salt Lake City, where she is completing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. Carrying the spirit of Detroit and Atlanta, her classical training began at Spelman College and continues to blossom on the operatic stage. Known for her rich vocal color and expressive artistry, she has brought to life a wide range of roles including The Duchess in A.L.I.C.E. by Amy Scurria, Aphrodite in Protectress by Jessica Rudman and Kendra Preston Leonard, Mrs. Cratchit in A Christmas Carol by Michael Leavitt and Anthony Buck, La Badessa in Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and most recently Dame Quickly in Verdi’s Falstaff in her debut with Lyrical Opera Theater. She has also premiered contemporary works in Chicago and Atlanta and currently performs with both U Opera and the choir of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
CAST BIOS
Emelia Hartford is a recent transfer to the University of Utah. Hailing from Seattle, she moved to Utah to pursue a BA in Music and a BS in Games. Her most recent roles have been Helena in A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream and Rosie in Mamma Mia.
R. Porter Hiatt, baritone, is thrilled to be singing for U Opera this year. Porter is working towards a BA in vocal performance at the University of Utah, studying under Dr. Seth Keeton and Professor James Bobick. He has performed professionally in various operas, musicals, operettas, and straight plays. Some of his favorite past credits include The Pirate King in The Pirates of Penzance, The Usher in Trial By Jury, King Melchior in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Sir John Tremayne in Me and My Girl, and Schaunard in La Bohème. In addition to performing his work on the stage, Porter also loves performing concert works. A few past experiences include the Baritone Solo in Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem and Bass Solist in Handel's Messiah.
Zekun Huang is a lyric soprano known for her expressive performances and passion for music. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from The Hartt School in 2022 and her Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the same institution in 2024. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah, continuing to refine her artistry and expand her repertoire. Her notable roles include Pamina in Die Zauberflöte, Clara in Signor Deluso, Susanna in Sull’aria from Le Nozze di Figaro, and Frasquita in the quintet from Carmen. Zekun Huang has worked with wonderful voice teachers such as Julie Wright-Costa, Robert Breault, Sondra Kelly, and Angela Gooch, as well as accomplished vocal coaches Kyle Swann, Lynn Kao, Samuel Martin, and Mac Merchant. She has collaborated with directors Matthew Ferraro, Jillian Foley, and Sondra Kelly. Her work with conductors Doris Lang Kosloff and Lynn Kao have greatly enriched her performances.
CAST BIOS
Lily Langer is originally from Chesapeake, Virginia. She started dancing at four years old at Dynamic Movements School of Performing Arts. She danced competitively in a variety of dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, pointe, jazz, and hip hop. Going into her four years of high school, Lily auditioned and was accepted into the Governor’s School for the Arts, where she focused on her ballet and modern training. Lily has attended many prestigious summer intensive programs, including Boston Ballet’s summer intensive, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s summer intensive, Complexions Academy's summer intensive, and Atlanta Ballet’s summer intensive. Lily had the opportunity to gain choreographic experience through her Senior Capstone project at the Governor’s School. The contemporary ensemble she staged was selected to be performed at the National High School Dance Festival in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2025. Lily is now a freshman attending the University of Utah to pursue a BFA in ballet. She has performed in two main stage shows and a studentchoreographed show this year, and is excited to continue her journey through the school of dance program.
Sarah Mair, soprano, is known for her emotional depth and compelling storytelling on stage. She has organized and performed a variety of solo recitals, including her most recent program, ’Tis the Season for Music, at the historic St. George Tabernacle. In 2021, Sarah originated and recorded the role of The Mystic in The Death of Schoenberg, an original operetta composed by Elena Winell. Her passion for community engagement has led her to perform in meaningful projects such as El Mesías, the only fully Spanish-language adaptation of Handel’s Messiah, and Why We Sing, a collaboration with a homeless women’s choir centered on themes of empowerment and resilience. During her time at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Sarah was a featured soloist in more than 50 recitals and concert series and earned her Bachelor of Music and Alexander Technique Teacher Certification alongside her performances. Sarah is currently pursuing her Master of Music in Voice Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Utah, where she continues to pursue her passion for performance and classical music.
CAST BIOS
Katie Mansfield is a mezzo-soprano pursuing her DMA at the University of Utah. Katie grew up singing in choirs and surrounded by music, but never dreamed she would pursue it as a career. She was raised in Roanoke, VA, and graduated from Liberty University with an MA in Music Education: Performance in 2021. She is passionate about opera, theater, dance, and backstage work as well. Some of Katie’s performances include: Le Nozze di Figaro, The Sound of Music, Hänsel und Gretel, The Magic Flute, Così fan Tutte, Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Rigoletto. Katie is very grateful to be performing again this season with the University of Utah.
Casey Morris, a vocal artist from Hockessin, Delaware, who has been praised for her intentional performances and the sweet color of her voice. Casey’s most recent role was Musetta in La Bohème (University of Utah Opera Theatre). Previously, she premiered the role of Calypso in the first staged production of Penelope and the Geese, later traveling to Greece to perform the role with composer Milica Paranosic and librettist Cheri Magid. Notable previous performances include debuting as Vitellia in La clemenza di Tito (University of Delaware Lyric Theatre), and Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Chicago Summer Opera). Concert performances include singing as the soprano soloist for a quartet version of Gustav Holst’s Christmas Day (Salt Lake Symphony) and participation in a recital for the Chicana Art Song Project (University of Delaware). Casey holds an M.M. in vocal performance from the University of Delaware, and currently studies under acclaimed mezzosoprano, Kirstin Chávez at the University of Utah.
Charlotte Muir has trained in classical ballet for the past 12 years, receiving foundational instruction in Utah at Moga Conservatory of Dance under the guidance of her teacher and mentor, Misa Oga Hansen. She has spent nine years competing at the Youth American Grand Prix semi-finals in Utah and Seattle, where she earned multiple awards and scholarships. She was also honored to attend the Finals in both New York City and Florida. Currently, she is continuing her training as a freshman in the School of Dance at the University of Utah, where she is further developing her artistry and technical foundation.
CAST BIOS
Abby Payne is thrilled to be in this production. Most recently, Abby has performed as Glinda in The Wizard of Oz, Charlotte in Cinderella, Miss Watson in Big River, Humpty Dumpty in Shrek, the Minstrel in Once Upon a Mattress, Lily Craven in Secret Garden, and Cosette in Les Misérables. When not at the university, Abby performs with the Utah Symphony Chorus and the Utah Chamber Artists. Abby is so grateful for those who've supported her, especially her loving husband Kraig, the production team, and her parents.
Erika Smith has been singing since she could talk and is so excited to be back on The University of Utah stage! Her previous role at the U was Pallade in Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea, and chorus in Floyd’s Susannah. She has spent time with The Salt Lake Children’s Theater in Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, and Murray Amphitheater as Cinderella. Erika is currently working on her Master's Degree in Performance and Pedagogy, has been teaching voice lessons for 18 years, is a fitness coach at VASA Fitness, and has the best husband and three kids in the world.
Karley Swallow, mezzo-soprano, has been described by the Utah Chronicle as showing “consistent power and control” and having “robustness and emotion [in] her voice, which easily command[s] an entire audience.” She is a senior in the Vocal Performance program at the University of Utah, studying under Prof. Kirstin Chávez. Recently, Karley attended the International Performing Arts Institute in Germany where she performed in an international space and collaborated with professionals working in European theater. Karley’s previous roles include Prince Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus, The Queen of Hearts in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., La Zia Principessa (cover) in Suor Angelica, and Zita in Gianni Schicchi. Karley is also a member of the acclaimed University of Utah’s Chamber Choir and the Michie Undergraduate Vocal Quartet.
CAST BIOS
Rocio Valle-Lucero is an accomplished opera singer and student. Originally from Delicias, Chihuahua, she began her vocal training as a church choir member and later earned a degree in vocal performance in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico. Rocio has performed as a chorister and soloist in northern Mexico, Texas, Utah, and Nebraska. She has also worked with renowned coaches and teachers such as Anthony Laciura, Deborah Voigt, Jesús Suaste, and Judith Natalucci. Some of Rocio's most notable performances include Suor Dolcina in Suor Angelica, Frida 1 in "El último sueño de Frida y Diego," and as a Soloist in the Opera To Go concert series with Opera Omaha. In January 2025, she performed Frasquita with Carmen Inside Out at the University of Utah. Rocio is pursuing an MM in Vocal Performance under the vocal instruction of Professor Kirstin Chávez.
Elida Wadsworth, soprano, is a master’s student at the University of Utah pursuing her degree in vocal performance and pedagogy. Elida is in the voice studio of Dr. Carol Ann Allred, and was the cover for Adele in Die Fledermaus with U Opera in February of 2025. Her other roles have included Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance and Diana in Orpheus in the Underworld. Originally from Kennewick Washington, Elida holds degrees in both vocal performance and choral music education from Central Washington University. Elida has enjoyed working as a substitute music teacher in both Utah and Washington, along with performing in various choral and solo settings.
Dawn Marie Wells is a soprano pursuing a degree in vocal performance and music theory student at the University of Utah studying with Professor Julie WrightCosta. She is pursuing her second degree after receiving a BA in English Teaching and a minor in music from BYU in 1999. Over the years, she has played violin in university and community orchestras; played piano and organ for various church and community groups; and sung in community and church choirs both in Utah and Germany. She played Eve in the premiere of the musical For Such a Time as This by Lindy Kerby. Her U Opera debut was in December 2023 where she played Mrs. Fezziwig, Ignorance, and Young Ebenezer in Leavitt’s A Christmas Carol. She also played the Cook in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E. She is the proud mother of six children.
CAST BIOS
Hayley Winslow began her training with Inland Pacific Ballet at the age of four. She has continued her ballet studies with Inland Pacific Ballet as well as attending many summer intensives, such as American Ballet Theater, Boston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and Kaatsbaan, under the direction of Stella Abrea, and is currently a classical ballet major at The University of Utah. Hayley was invited to attend the Grand Audition in Paris in the spring of 2023 and received interest from several international companies to further her training and career. She has received numerous scholarship offers from American Ballet Theater, Joffrey Ballet, and many others. Hayley has also performed at YAGP, placing in the Top 12. Hayley has had the honor of being coached by many teachers, such as Victoria Koenig, Jill Voznick, Kelly Lamoreaux, Clinton Rothwell, Zappora Karz, Stella Abrera, Michelle Gifford, and Joan Boada. Hayley has performed with Inland Pacific Ballet for 14 years in such ballets as The Little Mermaid, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, and many more. She has also performed with the Moscow Ballet in “The Great Russian Nutcracker” and with the American Contemporary Ballet in Mozartiana
PRODUCTION BIOS
Aubrey Adams-McMillan serves as the Assistant Director of Opera and Associate Instructor of Voice at the University of Utah, where she is thrilled to bring her creative vision, technical expertise, and passion for mentoring artists. A distinguished mezzo-soprano, she has captivated audiences in roles ranging from the searing Madame de Croissy in Dialogues des Carmélites to the comedic Bertha in Il barbiere di Siviglia, with performances at Utah Opera, Central City Opera, and the Spoleto Festival USA. Her concert work—including Verdi’s Requiem, Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, and Dvořák’s Stabat Mater—showcases her artistry across both grand and intimate musical settings.
PRODUCTION BIOS
Dr. Carol Anderson brings over two decades of distinguished experience in opera and vocal coaching to the University of Utah, following 22 seasons as Principal Coach with Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO). Since 2002, she has also been an integral member of the music staff at The Santa Fe Opera, widely regarded as the nation’s leading summer opera festival. Renowned for her work as a master teacher and clinician, Dr. Anderson has led master classes across the country—both in person and virtually—and has served as a featured panelist for Opera America, contributing to national conversations on audition preparation and institutional best practices. Her passion for audience engagement is evident in her ongoing roles as the presenter of Utah Opera’s acclaimed Prelude talks and as a lecturer for The Santa Fe Opera’s Prelude Dinners. Prior to her tenure with Utah Opera, Dr. Anderson served as Chorus Master and Music Administrator at Orlando Opera, where she also conducted performances of Amahl and the Night Visitors. She has held music staff positions with leading institutions including Houston Grand Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, Sarasota Opera, Brevard Music Center, Nashville Opera, and Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music. In addition, she completed two seasons as an apprentice coach with both the Houston Grand Opera Studio and the Aspen Opera Theater Center. An active performer and advocate for underrepresented composers, Dr. Anderson recently collaborated with mezzo-soprano Katharine Goeldner in Silenced Voices: Music by Female Composers of the Holocaust, performed at the American Gothic Festival and for the Wagner Society of Santa Fe. Originally from Houston, Texas, Dr. Anderson holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Keyboard Collaborative Arts from the University of Southern California, Master of Music in Accompanying and Chamber Music from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and Bachelor of Music in Church Music, Piano Emphasis, from Baylor University.
PRODUCTION BIOS
Robert Baldwin is Director of Orchestras and Professor of Conducting at the University of Utah. He is also the Music Director and Conductor for the Salt Lake Symphony, the founding conductor for Sinfonia Salt Lake, and is an honorary adjunct professor at Wuhan University Center for the Arts in China. He has conducted UK Opera’s “It’s A Grand Night for Singing" since 2000, and has appeared multiple times at Lincoln Center as a conductor for the Annual Messiah Sing-In with the National Chorale. International appearances include the Eutin Festspiele in Germany, Kuopio Academy in Finland, and the Hermitage Camerata in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the Busan Maru Music Festival in South Korea, and the Hunan, Wuhan University, and Wuhan Conservatory Symphonies in China. He holds degrees in viola from the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Iowa, and a DMA in conducting from the University of Arizona.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Melissa Bobick graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in ballet and nutrition from Indiana University in Bloomington and received her Master of Fine Arts degree in choreography from Purchase College Conservatory of Dance in New York. Melissa is also an ABT® Certified Teacher and earned the status of Affiliate Teacher while teaching in New York City. As a performer, Melissa danced with the Eugene Ballet Company and Ballet Idaho, where she was featured in many classical roles and numerous contemporary works. After moving to New York City, Melissa was chosen to dance for the National Choreographers Initiative and was one of four dancers engaged by New York City Opera for their new production of Massenet’s Cendrillon. As a choreographer, Melissa was commissioned to choreograph three new works for Ballet Idaho and Eugene Ballet and was named a Choreographic Development Resident at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She has also choreographed numerous original works for the University of Utah’s School of Dance. Melissa was twice named a finalist for McCallum Theatre’s Choreography Festival. She has shown work at the Detroit Dance City Festival as well as the Breaking Ground Festival in Tempe, Arizona. Recently, two of Melissa’s original works were restaged on Eugene Ballet and Ballet Project Orange County. Most recently, Melissa created a new work for Ballet Nacional Dominicano, the national ballet company of the Dominican Republic. Melissa is currently an Associate Professor at the University of Utah School of Dance.
Baritone James Bobick has enjoyed a versatile career, from leading operatic roles in the works of Donizetti, Verdi, Bizet, and Mozart to those in the operas of contemporary composers including Jake Heggie, Mark Adamo, John Eaton, and David T. Little. Mr. Bobick was seen in over twenty roles at New York City Opera including a Primetime Emmy-winning broadcast of La Bohème. He has also appeared with companies including Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, Portland Opera, Opera Colorado, Connecticut Opera, Opera Mississippi, Opera Omaha, Opera Pacific, Opera Delaware, Virginia Opera, Baltimore Opera, Wichita Grand Opera, Dayton Opera, Central City Opera, Fort Worth Opera, and the Bard Festival. James can also be heard as Howard on the on the Grammy-nominated original cast recording of David T. Little’s Dog Days. In addition to his work in the standard operatic repertoire, Mr. Bobick has extensive experience performing the new works of contemporary composers. He has bowed as Bendrix in Heggie’s End of the Affair, Kinesias in Adamo’s Lysistrata, Dr. Bloom in Eaton’s micro-tonal opera Pumped Fiction, Donald Giovanni in Schickele’s The Abduction of Figaro, and as Howard in David T. Little’s critically acclaimed Dog Days. Mr. Bobick has also performed contemporary works while in concert and on recording. These works have included leading roles in Manno’s Dylan and Caitlin, Aldrich’s Elmer Gantry, Eaton’s The Rev. Jim Jones, Garfein’s Rosenkrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, Geller’s Where Silence Reigns, Colantti's The Selfish Giant, Patterson’s A Child Possessed, Marks’ Bluetooth Islands, Cervetti’s Elegy for a Prince and Yum!, Dellaira's The Death of Webern, Little’s Soldier Songs, and Ted Hearne’s Katrina Ballads. James Bobick is also a frequent concert soloist. At Carnegie Hall, he has been heard in Orff’s Carmina Burana, Mendelssohn’s Die Erste Walpurgisnacht, Mozart’s Coronation Mass, and Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass He has performed at Avery Fisher (David Geffen) Hall in Carmina Burana, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Haydn’s Creation and Paukenmesse, Bach's Mass in B minor, and Handel’s Messiah. Internationally, he has performed as a soloist in Messiah in Prague with the Prague Symphony; Carmina Burana and Messiah in San José, Costa Rica with the National Symphony; Fauré’s Requiem in Paris, Reims, and Chartres with the Orchestre Pasdeloup; and Fauré’s Tu es Petrus during Mass in Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris. Around the United States, Mr. Bobick’s performances have included Carmina Burana, Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem, Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s Magnificat and Mass in B minor, Handel’s Israel in Egypt, Messiah, and Saul, Haydn’s Die Schöpfung and Lord Nelson Mass, Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle, Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem, Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Five Mystical Songs, and Songs of Travel, Prokofiev’s Lieutenant Kijé, Mahler’s Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, and Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio.
PRODUCTION BIOS
Lynn Brisco (Stage Manager) is a graduating student of the U’s stage management program. Some of their favorite credits include Whitelisted (Salt Lake Acting Company,) R.U.R. (University of Utah,) and You on the Moors Now (University of Utah.) They can be found in electrical crews around Utah, in new play development workshops, or sipping tea under a shady tree. They would like to thank Amber Bielinski for being a great mentor and person throughout their time in college.
Saila Duplissie is known for her clarity and collaborative spirit as a conductor and leader. Her upbringing as both a bass trombone and cello player in the California Bay Area gives her a unique understanding of the orchestra members and their experiences in the ensemble. Throughout her time in Utah, Saila has worked with many community ensembles in the Salt Lake and Utah Valley areas as both musician and conductor. She is the assistant conductor of the Taylorsville|SLCC Symphony Orchestra and a graduate conductor for the University of Utah orchestras under the direction of Dr. Robert Baldwin. She has her Bachelor of Music in instrumental music education and will be graduating from the orchestral conducting masters program, both at the University of Utah. On the weekends she can be found planning events with her fellow librarians at the Park City Library or watching anime with her cat.
Costume designer Robin Farnsley-Becker is widely known for her meticulous attention to detail. Her costume creations are well-researched with accurate historical or modern creations. They are made with breathtaking opulence when called for or heartbreaking poverty or simplicity that mirrors a composer or director’s vision. Being a singer and performer herself, she knows how to accomplish all of this with no-detail-too-small quality and the knowledge that comfort is “key” to singing that supports the adage, “You are (can be) what you wear”!
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Emily Hubert is enthusiastic to share with you the 2025-26 season of Opera at the University of Utah through the work that she and her colleagues have put in. Previously, she has been in Donizetti‘s L‘elisir d‘amore as Gianetta, as well as the chorus of Riders to the Sea by Vaughan Williams. Emily hopes you open yourself to the complex beauty of our shows as you enter the world of the characters.
Sierra Loertscher (Spotlight Operator)
Sierra is a recent Theatre BFA graduate from the University of Utah. Notable stage management and crew credits include Fidelio (Utah Opera), Gift of the Magi (Park City Opera), Legally Blonde (UofU), La Boheme (UofU), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (UofU), Xanadu (UofU), and Joseph…Dreamcoat and The Scarlet Pimpernel (Sandbox Theatre Company). She has also ushered at the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater on 52 concerts.
Miriam Medley is a multi-instrumentalist whose collaborative journey has been shaped by a proclivity for open exploration, voracious curiosity, and omnidimensional creativity. With an abiding affinity for music, she began her multi-faceted journey as a young artist, engaging in solo and ensemble performing from an early age. During her undergraduate program in piano performance, Miriam embraced collaboration by participating in myriad opportunities: period ensembles, chamber groups, pit orchestras, the university symphony, experimental music organizations, and interdisciplinary projects. In the years since, Miriam has enjoyed performing with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and soloists across Utah and Wyoming. She has taken pride in opportunities that involve the education of young musicians and the augmentation of their musical experiences. Life has deepened her appreciation for education and enhanced her collaborative spirit. Today, Miriam is pursuing a graduate degree in collaborative piano, powered by her belief in music’s power to unite, dissolve boundaries, and create collectively transcendent experiences.
PRODUCTION BIOS
Blake Nelson (1st ASM) (He/They/She) Blake is a sophomore in the Stage ManagementProgram here at the University of Utah and is thrilled to work with the School of Music again on their production of Hansel and Gretel. Some past credits include The Tender Land (ASM) with the School of Music; Charting Neverland (PA), and Nuns (SM) with the Department of Theatre here at the U, and A Christmas Story, Tuck Everlasting, and The Sound of Music (Crew) at CenterPoint Theatre. Much love to Mom, Dad, Connor, Mai, and all of those who helped me get here. @ thatautistictheatrekid
Abish Noble (Technical Director) (she/they) is a Theatrical Technician based in SLC. They graduated with a BFA in Set Design from the University of Utah. Abish is currently the head scenic painter at Salt Lake Acting Company, and a regular stage crew member at Pioneer Theatre Company. Thanks to Halee and Jim for the opportunity to work on this show!
Sara Schwartz recently graduated with her B.F.A. in Performing Arts Design from the University of Utah. She presently works for the Department of Theatre as their lead lighting and sound technician, and in her free time she freelance designs around the Salt Lake Valley. Her designs have been featured at West Valley Performing Arts, The Grand Theatre, Kingsbury Hall, the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center, and many more. She would like to thank her husband Zach for his unwavering support. You can follow her work atskcschwartzdesign.com
Maddisyn Thomas (2nd Assistant Stage Manager) is a freshman in the Stage Management Program and is extremely excited to be working on this production of Hansel & Gretel. Previously Maddi has worked on Legally Blonde at the University of Utah as well as Hadestown: Teen Edition and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, both as an ASM at Riverton High School. She would like to thank everyone who has supported her to where she is now and where she will go!